When I first arrived at Omni Wellness I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve never received acupuncture before. I went based on a referral and had an open mind with only one ingrained misconception: all my ailments would be cured at once after being stuck with a million needles. Misconceptions or not, my experience at Omni was a truly rewarding experience.

Plus #1: My health insurance covered my visit, but they clearly stated their willingness to work with me within my budget had it not.

Plus #2: Omni Wellness is conveniently located in at 928 Broadway between 21 and 22nd streets, easily accessible by all forms of public transportation.

Plus #3: Unless you’re a student of Chinese medicine the terminology of acupuncture can be intimidating or downright ridiculous. The acupuncturists on staff (independent practitioners who lease space on site) do a really great job of gauging the knowledge of their clients and communicating with them and to them at their level. Not once during my time there did I feel like I was being fed a bunch of mumbo jumbo.

Plus #4: Omni’s offices were clean, minimalistic and invited you to relax. The lights were low, but not so much that you had to squint in order to see your way around.

Plus #5: The consultation. My acupuncturist, Seanna Sifflet, Lac, LMSW, an amazing and very reassuring person, spoke with me at length about all that ailed me, stressed me, and all that didn’t. This happened before I received my first needle. It was an experience that cleared my head and would’ve erased any unease had I had any prior to receiving treatment.

40 minutes later I emerged from my mini-vacation feeling as if I had been taken away from it all, if only for a little while. I was given my prescription: drink plenty of water and get a good night’s rest. I made an appointment for my next visit and extended my hand for the customary shake. This was promptly dismissed by Seanna who instead gave me a hug. I can’t say I’ve ever been hugged at the doctor’s office, but strangely enough this felt pretty natural. Within two days all but one ailment remained after my treatment. If I wasn’t a full believer before, I definitely am now.

Omni Wellness’ amenities don’t stop at acupuncture. They also have chiropractic, skincare and massage services, rounding out an entire menu of care. If you plan your day accordingly I’m sure you could make a day of it. But unless someone is there to take you home you may not have the desire to ever leave.

Omni Wellness. Wholistic care — and a hug.

Omni Wellness
928 Broadway, Suite 1200
New York, NY 10010
Between (21st / 22nd)
Telephone: 212-777-1318
E-mail: omninyc@gmail.com

Although, the holidays have long passed, you never know when a fun and interesting gift idea will present itself. While out wandering Chinatown, I happened upon Yunhong Chopsticks on Mott Street. As you can tell by the name, the store sells nothing but chopsticks and not just any chopsticks. The store carries a wide assortment of styles (e.g. sandalwood, stainless steel, mother of pearl.) Prices start at $1.99 for plain plastic chopsticks to $500 for gold-tipped chopsticks. Of course, there are hundreds of affordable styles that will fit those of us on a budget.

Be unique and pick up a pair or a ten-pack for an upcoming birthday, graduation, wedding or anniversary. Each pair comes in a beautiful gift box that will ensure your gift stands out from the crowd. Of course, you can also treat yourself to a pair, maybe crystal perhaps, for all those asian-inspired meals you have at home. There is also, a starter pair to help your kids learn the fine art of using chopsticks.

Yunhong Chopsticks
50 Mott Street
New York, NY 10013
www.happychopsticks.com
Subway Stops:
6, J, M, N, Q, R, W, Z at Canal St.

I came across a cookie product that was truly delicious and unique. But what makes the product so much more delicious is the fact that it was made by a woman with the spirit of a true NY Metropolista!

Sara Leand, a former TV producer (who produced shows for E!, Lifetime and TLC) and new mom, traded in her corporate life to focus on her passion for making cookies and other treats.

“Ever since I was a little girl I experimented with fun creations in the kitchen,” said Leand, an Upper West Side resident. “I love coming up with cookies and treats that are new takes on classics. My goal is to bring back positive memories from ones childhood.”

She has succeeded in through her creation, the Chipn’eztel, a sweet and savory cookie made from every one’s two favorite snacks, potato chips and pretzels.

A self taught baker , Leand’s inspiration was her grandmother whose motto was “make people smile.”  The birth of her daughter Lily, named after her grandmother, motivated her to finally take the steps to bring back the Sara Cookie Company, which first came to be in her college dorm. She sold cookies and treats throughout  campus and local store to rave reviews. Eventually she had to but the business on hold to focus on her studies.

The Chipn’eztel come in four delicious varieties: Original (dusted with sugar), dipped Dark Chocolate, hand dipped in White Chocolate, and assorted bite size.

The Chipn’eztel can be found in gourmet stores in and around the city, including Zabar’s Grace’s Marketplace (Greenvale, N.Y.), Westside Markets, Maywood Markets (N.J.), Garden of Eden (all locations), Amish Bazaar (Upper West Side), and Amish Market (45th St.). They are also available in Fanciful Gift Baskets in Los Angeles and online at www.sarasnacker.com.

My absolute favorite is the hand dipped Dark Chocolate, though the White Chocolate is also delicious. Bravo to this amazing woman, mom, New Yorker, and inspirational entrepreneur for following her heart and creating such a great product!

As the Holiday season slowly begins to fill the air with excitement and anticipation, little surprises, filled with traditions, start popping up here and there to help you prepare for the gift giving season. One of those surprises can be found in Rockefeller Center.  From now through January 5, Rockefeller Center will be host to the Lionel Electric Trains Flagship Store.

This pop-up store, a first for the iconic 109-year old brand, is filled with collectible favorites, from the traditional Santa Fe 2-10-10-2 300 Steam Locomotive to new favorites like The Polar Express. Whether you are looking to add to an already started tradition at home, or are looking to start a collection for generations to come, this store is conveniently located in the heart of where the Holidays are most felt in New York City.  Only steps away from the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree, the ice skating rink, the breathtaking Holiday windows of Saks Fifth Avenue, and more, you can make a visit to Lionel Trains a day full of adventure, fun, with new and old discoveries for your family.

Founded more than 109 years ago by Joshua Lionel Cowen, the first electric train was made for advertising display only. However, the demand by customers to bring these cars home lead to the first commercial products being produced.  The company was founded right here in New York City before moving to CT, NJ, and then settling in Michigan. The ornaments have been one of Hallmark’s top five product lines.

Lionel has since had much success and become a symbol of happy holiday traditions, often passed on from generation to generation.